I was researching a temperature controller for my next DIY tank build and have assembled some options to consider. These options are listed in order of ease of implementation and popularity, not listed in order of what delivers the most quality product.
Inkbird Temperature Controllers have a solid history in float tank construction
A person named Jules has used the Inkbird on two different heaters and loves it. We also have this open source float tent that used the inkbird. So I’m pretty certain I will be going with the Inkbird temperature controller that has outlets for 2 heaters (and no cooling option).
Waterbed Heaters with a built-in temperature controller
Even a commercial float tank, the Samadhi has used waterbed heaters. In their case, Thermal Guardian. These do not have a suction cup to affix your sensor to the side of the tank because they were intended to lay under a waterbed.
the Ranco NEMA 4 is a pricey temperature controller but maybe worth it?
Siddarth Chintala mentioned the Ranco NEMA 4 as a temperature controller. It goes for about 200 bucks. Float Boston has experimented with one, but they did not report whether they found it suitable.
It doesnt come with a suction cup to attach to the side of your tank. The inkbird does.
Terrifying Commercial Float Tank Options
DIY Float tankers like to grab off-the-shelf parts, slap them together and be floating fast with no hassles. Thus, the efforts to craft a top-of-the-line float tank are too involved for the average DIY float tanker. Nonetheless, we present a couple of such options for the brave of heart.
Tempco heater controllers
Tom of FloatSNJ uses Tempco heater controllers with temperature curve logic, with stainless steel k type thermocouples. This keeps his tanks within a .5 degree F range. He uses solid state relays so that the heaters clicking on and off do not make sound.
There is no question that Tom of FloatSNJ is using best of breed equipment, but his choices are too scary for me.
Omega Controllers.
The OMEGA CN32PT-145 is an option in use with Pro Float Cabins.
Acknowlegdgements:
- the fb diy tank group
- /r/FloatTank,
- Siddharth Chintala